Putnam County Soil Data
Putnam County, New York
Avg pH
3.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
29.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Putnam County, New York
Extremely Acidic Soils in Putnam
Putnam County features a very low average pH of 3.30, making it one of the most acidic soil profiles in the state. This extreme chemistry results in a lower soil score of 52.8 compared to the state average. These conditions are often found in areas with high concentrations of peat or specific swampy environments.
Light Texture with Minimal Clay
The soil contains 29.6% sand and 26.4% silt, but clay levels are very low at just 6.4%. This lack of clay means the soil has very little natural stickiness or structural 'grip.' The texture is dominated more by organic components than by traditional mineral particles.
A Reservoir of Organic Material
Organic matter is exceptionally high at 29.46%, nearly double the state average of 17.01%. Despite the extreme acidity, the available water capacity matches the state average of 0.182 in/in. This soil is essentially a massive organic sponge, holding vast amounts of biological material.
Hydrology of an Organic Sponge
With nearly 30% organic matter and very little clay, water behaves differently here than in mineral-heavy counties. While drainage class data is missing, these soils likely hold water for long periods, which can be challenging for traditional basement construction. Careful water management is essential for any development in these bog-like conditions.
Unique Growing in Zone 6b
While the pH of 3.30 is too low for most vegetables without significant liming, it is an ideal wild habitat for rhododendrons and azaleas. In Zone 6b, you can transform these acidic soils into a stunning ornamental garden filled with acid-loving perennials. Embrace the unique character of your soil and start your garden project today.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Putnam County have?
Putnam County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 26% silt, and 6% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Putnam County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Putnam County's soil has a low pH of 3.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Putnam County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Putnam County.
What crops or plants grow well in Putnam County's soil?
Based on Putnam County's Loam texture, pH of 3.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Putnam County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Putnam County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Putnam County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in New York
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.